Blunt still backs death option for rapists of children

Governor Blunt hopes the United States Supreme Court changes its mind someday and lets prosecutor ask for the execution of those who rape children.

Governor Blunt notes the court’s ruling against execution for rapists of children w as only 5-4, meaning one vote could swing on a later case and change things.

Blunt wanted the legislature to pass a law this year allowing that penalty. The legislature didn’t do it.

He says he’s not asking that it be mandatory—but says prosecutors should have the option of seeking it.

The governor has one legislative message left to give before he leaves. He doubts he’ll ask for even tougher non-capital punishments for those who rape children because Missouri already has one of the strongest child sex abuse laws in t he nation. But he hopes future legislators will consider providing an option for life sentences without parole.